No Rest

Sethe has had an extremely difficult life. Being a slave for 18 years, having her family dying and being dysfunctional, and, the small aspect of her being haunted by her dead infant. The labors of her life are shown on her body through scars, these are the only memories that she cannot suppress from Denver, for whom she protects from everything else. It was really interesting when Paul D, who lusted after Sethe, kissed the scars on her breasts, and the whole house shook because of the temper of Beloved. This really showed how Sethe cannot, under any circumstances think about her own comfort and happiness,even after she is free of slave, she is still bound by her children and her protection and shelter she provides for them. And if her own emotions do not understand that enough, all that has to happen is for Beloved to make a scene and Sethe will resume her normal unrested activities.

Comments

[Hannah P.]

I think that in the novel it is clear that Sethe has struggled her entire life. She is always worrying about other people in her life and never really finds the time for herself.

[Jules D.]

I totally agree with you that Sethe cannot rest--she herself seems to guard from it. Any time she seeks a little peace for herself Beloved wreaks havoc. In chapter...10?...some unearthly force nearly stranges her. Beloved seems to revive her, although Denver is suspicious if it was this spirits fault in the first place. I wonder at what cost Sethe will find her deserved rest?

[Rosa D.]

I agree Sethe always seems to be working. Sethe works so hard and has such a hard life it seems like she will never get a break. Despite this Sethe seems only to know work so she really does not mind. All though out the book more details of her struggles are being reveled which really shows how hard of a life she has had.